Emerald Heights’ hygiene kits help locals

Fifth-grader Shannon Olson, a student at Emerald Heights Elementary School, understands that sometimes life just isn’t fair. That’s why she was more than willing to pitch in on Wednesday morning when her school’s ASB was putting together hygiene kits for homeless and families in emergency shelters and in transitional housing in Kitsap County.

“It’s not fair that they don’t have homes and they have to live outside,” Olson said. “We should help them.”

The school has put together 300 personal hygiene kits that include basic toiletries. All of the items were purchased and donated to the humanitarian project. Each kit cost approximately $7.50.

The project is a collaboration between the Emerald Heights PTA and the students. Each kit is complete with a note of encouragement for whoever receives it. The kits were scheduled to be delivered to Kitsap Community Resources Friday.

“In Kitsap County there are too many families who are living out of their car or who have been displaced due to domestic disputes and accompanying violence,” said Chris Fry, president of the Emerald Heights PTA. “These kits will be a welcome donation to get them through their initial transition. Those receiving the kits will not only benefit from the personal items allowing them to freshen up and feel better about themselves, but will recognized there are people in our community who are concerned and care about them.”

Jeffrey Burns, a sixth-grader, said he gets a sense of satisfaction from helping others.

He said he was helping “because I’m an ASB rep and because I want to help. It’s fun to help other people.”

Burns said it was a bonus for him that the hygiene kits were going to be distributed locally.

“I think it’s cool that it stays home,” he said.

Joey Spitz, ASB advisor, said he wasn’t

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.